If you’re suffering from noisy neighbourhoods or due to outside noise traffic, we sympathize. Blaring car horns, shouted conversations and nearby industrial activity can produce a huge noise that passes through your windows. And if it is in constant frequencies, it can drive you crazy!
In fact, windows are the second major source for helping the soundwaves to pass in a room after a door. But you don’t have to worry about it. Because as H.L. Menken has said, “There is always an easy solution to every problem,” so in this guide, we have shared every possible way on how to soundproof a window cheaply, that can help you block and absorb a lot of this intrusive audio.
Basically, soundwaves can easily travel through some non-solid materials, such as windows, but not through dense solids, like concrete walls.
Just to be safe, I have discussed some easiest ways to soundproof a room to make the whole area noise-proof and just to get rid of this annoying outside noise. Sometimes due to poor installation of the window frame, there would be gaps all around the frame and it can lead to noise pollution.
So, it is always recommended to approach the windows and doors first while soundproofing any house, so I have mentioned below all the best techniques to soundproof a window and talking about doors, you can check our detailed guide on how to soundproof a door.
So how to soundproof a window cheaply?
Apply double glazing or extra layers of glass to soundproof windows so that they are structurally strong enough to block out noise. To avoid air leaks, cover the spaces with thick insulating tape or acoustic sealant.
Well, that was a very short answer.
There are numerous ways on how to soundproof a window cheaply. And in this article, we’ll go over some helpful techniques and benefits concerning soundproofing a window.
Along with that, I am going to answer some of the most frequently asked questions and discuss the elements you should consider while soundproofing a window.
How to Soundproof a Window Cheaply
Soundproofing a window means finding out the root cause of noise pollution and how to deal with that situation. So, there are some basic affordable solutions to fix them.
Each method has its own pros and cons but all are efficient in their own place and particularly when used in combination. Let’s discuss your options so that you make an informed decision and finally get some sleep.
1. Seal all the Air Gaps or Cracks
Windows can have some gaps or cracks between the walls or borders of the windows, which can help the soundwaves to travel easily within the house. This can happen due to some wrong fixing of the windows or due to some breakage around the window. This problem also arises while soundproofing a door too.
So first of all, our main aim is to identify the cracks or gaps. And this can be done by darkening the room and by checking where the light is passing by, around the window.
Now, using one of the below methods you can fill or seal all the pathways around the window and prevent the sound from passing through it.
1.1 Using Acoustic Sealants
Acoustic sealants are specifically engineered polymers that cover holes in walls and prevent sound waves from traveling through the air. So now, you can fill or seal the cracks and gaps around the window and let
it settle for at least 48 hours.
It has a great level of durability, so you don’t have to redo it for at least 3-4 years. Acoustic sealants are easy to use and will remain flexible whereas conventional sealants will harden and eventually fracture over time. Hence, always use acoustic sealant because it won’t shrink or cracks like a traditional sealant.
But also keep an eye on what you’re doing. It’s crucial not to use sealant in areas where it can interfere with your windows’ regular performance. This method can also be used with other techniques to provide further sound protection.
So, there are number of choices for soundproofing sealant; however, I would recommend you to use Green Glue Soundproofing Sealant. It is better than the regular caulk and has smooth and high-quality latex with water resistance.
1.2 Install Weatherstripping Tape
Weatherstripping tape is basically made of foam, rubber, and silicone which helps to reduce noise leakage and energy waste. With the help of this, you can cover the holes surrounding your window frame. And applying high-density foam to the bottom edge of your window sash can also help to reduce outside noise.
Make sure your weatherstripping tape is sturdy and sticky around the corners of your windows that can withstand sound. Weatherstripping comes in a wide variety of colors which will not only decorate your window but also insulate you from cold winds, and hot waves and prevent water leakages.
It is an easy-to-install DIY that will take less than 30 minutes to cover the whole window. You just have to first clean the surface, cut the strips to the desired length and fit it to all the sides of the window. The result will be amazing.
You can check out Nubstous WeatherStripping Tape which is dustproof, weather-resistant, and good for anti-collision.
2. Double Gazing the Window
It is one of the most expensive methods while soundproofing the window but the most effective one. In double glazed windows, the window frames are fitted with two panes of glass with a 12mm – 16mm gap between them.
Make sure to create space between the frames and panes. The space between them is sealed to make it airtight and dead air which functions as an excellent insulator.
The figure below compares the soundproofing efficiency of single pane, laminated, and double glazed windows in terms of STC (Sound Transmission Class).
The average STC values for the three varieties are listed below. According to Wikipedia, the effect of each STC value is provided in brackets.
· Single-pane windows have an average STC of 30. (Loud speech can be understood)
· STC 35 for laminated windows (Loud speech audible but not intelligible)
· STC 41 is the average for double-glazed windows (Loud speech audible as a murmur)
It is also recommended to laminate one pane as it will help in more noise reduction.
3. Build a Window Plug
Window plug is the simplest method for soundproofing a window. They are made from inexpensive materials and easy to build and cost-effective.
They operate by layering acoustic foam, soundproof matting, and wood in the space in front of your windows. Incoming soundwaves are absorbed by the foam in the front.
The mat and the wood backing board block any noise that gets through the foam. To make installation and removal easier, handles are fitted to the back side of the wood.
Plugs have the benefit of not being permanent. When they’re needed, they can be added, and when they’re not, they can be removed. That’s a good thing because they do have some significant drawbacks.
For starters, they don’t look particularly appealing from the inside of the house or from the street. Furthermore, they completely block all light from entering the room.
You won’t be able to remove the plugs if your noise problem is ongoing, which means you won’t be able to enjoy natural sunlight during the day.
However, if you live in an area where there is a lot of light pollution at night, the light-blocking abilities of the plugs may be beneficial.
Before constructing the window plug, you should first measure the height, width, and depth of your window opening. And also to achieve a good seal, make your plug slightly wider and higher than your window opening.
The window depth measurement is critical since it determines the maximum thickness of your plug. Remember to leave at least an inch of space between the plug’s foam and your window glass when calculating
this thickness. The plug’s ability to block sound will be aided by the air gap.
Cut your acoustic foam, soundproof mat, and wood board (either plywood or MDF works well) to a size slightly taller and wider than your window opening for making a wider barrier.
Then attach the mat to the wood and the foam to the mat with the help of glue. And also you can screw the metal drawer and pulls it to the back of the wood board to serve as handles.
After the glue has dried, simply press the plug firmly into your window opening, thereby leaving a small gap between the foam and the glass. You’ll notice a significant decrease in noise incursion.
4. Install Soundproof Curtains
Like window plugs, soundproof curtains are simple to install and especially if you have existing curtain rods. Soundproof curtains are fabric-cloth-made material, which is more appealing than a wood-backed window plug.
And if you are just thinking about minimizing or absorbing the sound to some extent, soundproof curtains is the best option. However, you cannot achieve complete noise protection.
The thickness of the curtains, the density of the fabric, and whether or not there is an inner liner to add layers and extra thickness, all these factors influence the absorbency. So you can’t expect curtains to block all the noises.
But in my opinion, it’s a win-win situation. Soundproof curtains are aesthetically pleasing and they will keep the light away. What’s more? You’ll actually kill two birds by one stone. Soundproof curtains will not only reduce the echoes but also make your interior look beautiful.
But if you face a serious noise pollution issue, the soundproof curtain won’t fix your problem. But they can help you when it is used in conjunction with other methods.
They may also make unsightly solutions like window plugs more appealing by hiding them behind curtains, in addition to adding a little noise absorption.
To make soundproof curtains more effective, you can buy a longer one, which can be folded to add another layer and it will increase the thickness of coverage.
You can choose any soundproof curtain as per your own requirements. But I would recommend you Nicetown Window Curtain which is made of 100% polyester which will help in noise reduction.
5. Block the window
Blocking the window doesn’t mean removing it with any concrete wall, it is all about placing something before or after the window.
We all know that noise usually moves through the air until it reaches any surface. Either it passes through the surface or reflects back. As a result, it loses some of its energy and gradually dies out quickly.
So the main solution is to add a surface or mass in front of the window or outside the window. You can use any one of the below methods to put something around the window and prevent the sound from passing through it.
5.1 Soundproofing with Furniture
Rearranging your existing furniture or adding some pieces can really help to soundproof your window cheaply. You may use soft, uneven materials to absorb sound waves and prevent them from bouncing around your space, which will reduce echo and reverberation.
The flat and solid ones, on the other hand, will stop sound from leaving or entering the room and reflect it back to where it came from. You have two options for dealing with this rearrangement, depending on your lighting choices.
You may totally hide the window by arranging closets, bookshelves, couches, and other such items in front of it. However, keep in mind that this choice will completely block off the outside light.
If you don’t want to waste any light, you can start by arranging the furniture around or adjacent to the window. To absorb sound waves, you can lay a large rug near the window.
But, to be honest, I’m not expecting a miracle. It’s a simple DIY solution that won’t cost you anything. It can help to reduce noise to some amount, so there’s no reason why you should not try it out!
5.2 Install Thick Blinds or Shutters
Installing thick blinds or shutters between the source of your noise pollution and the indoors will help you to have a better acoustic performance. It will directly lead to reducing the noise.
Of course, it won’t eradicate noise pollution but it can be used in combination, and it will have a significant effect. It has another advantage of controlling the amount of light that you want to let within the room. And you can also have a sense of privacy and peace.
While buying the blinds, remember to choose the one which has a honeycomb composition. They are called cellular or honeycomb shades. The honeycomb form captures air and effectively keeps it out of the house. Double cells provide major impact and offer the best acoustic benefits.
Timber window shutters and insulating windows also make a decent noise reduction. Because wood is porous, it is an excellent sound-dampening material. Insulating blinds are composed of a thicker fabric, which means they will block out sound better.
You can check out Cordless Single Cell Shades which has excellent customer reviews. It also has unique honeycomb composition, which enhances its ability to absorb and dampen the sound waves more effectively.
6. Install a Quilted Fiberglass Panel
To get rid of exterior noise, it will be better to use thicker and denser material. Curtains are light and airy while quilted fiberglass panels are significantly thicker and denser. A four-foot-wide by eight-foot-tall panel with a two-inch think weighs more than twelve pounds!
The weight of the panel is optimal because it tends to lay flat against the window frame when hung with hooks from above. It fixes another shortcoming of curtains. They tend to let in sound at the top and bottom, where the curtain folds do not adhere tightly to the window.
Metal reinforced eyelet holes are included with the panels. Heavy-duty hooks can be installed around your window frame and inserted into the eyelets to hang the panel.
You can use strong Velcro to attach the edges of the panels to make them even more effective. This creates a tight seal around the window’s exterior, allowing even less sound to pass through.
While a quilted fiberglass panel is more effective at sound absorption than sound deadening curtains, it is less appealing. But again, you can install both and cover the panel with curtains.
7. Add Storm Windows
Storm windows can be installed in front of the older single–pane windows to improve their noise-blocking abilities. That extra layer of glass and air gap between the two windows provides additional sound insulation.
This method is more costly and advanced than the others, so make sure to use high-quality products and professional techniques to get the job done.
And if your problems are severe enough you might consider contacting a contractor and getting a quote. However, Skilled DIYers and adventurous ones may easily complete this task.
There is one important factor you have to consider. That storm windows are not advised if you have vinyl replacement windows. Heat can build up between the two windows to an extent that the frame of the vinyl window can bend, bow, or sag, ultimately destroying the window.
8. Adding Extra Layer over the Glass
It is one of the cheapest DIY solutions for soundproofing a window. You can add another layer of the acrylic sheet over the existing window glass. It is cheaper and more viable option which will help in reducing the noise without blocking outside beauty and natural view.
However, this technique isn’t effective as storm windows since you get a smaller gap between the layers. But still, it is significant to some extent and less expensive.
Make sure you buy a plexiglass sheet that is thick enough. Soundproofing will be limited by thin plexiglass. However, don’t go too thick or the sheet will become extremely heavy. Something in the range of 3/8” to 1/2” thick should be acceptable. Also, use window-grade acrylic or laminated. Due to sunshine exposure, this will not fade or discolor.
You’ll need to take measurements of the interior of your window frames before having the plexiglass panels cut to fit. To get started, you’ll need to make a simple metal or wood frame. Build it to the maximum depth that your window frame will allow. This produces a dead air pocket between your plexiglass layer and the window.
To wedge it securely into place, make it somewhat higher and broader than your windows. Because the frame may be readily removed in the future, this is preferable than attaching it to the glass.
Then you’ll attach strong, thin magnets around the frame and in the plexiglass’s corresponding locations. These magnets will keep your acrylic sheet in place while also allowing you to remove it if you need to open the window.
This method is more effective than curtains and fiberglass panels.
Benefits of Soundproofing a Window
Depending on whatever approach or ways you choose, you will experience a reduction in noise pollution as well as a slew of other advantages.
To various degrees, all of the solutions outlined here will help weatherproof and insulate your windows. This implies that cold air penetration can be better controlled in the winter and heat transfer can be reduced in the summer. Window plugs, curtains, and quilted fiberglass panels that completely block sunlight will prevent most of the summer sun’s heat, lowering your air conditioning consumption.
This decrease in sunlight will safeguard your valuables from sun bleaching. If you’re also dealing with strong external lights at night, as mentioned earlier, these blackout solutions will assist with both sound and light pollution.
Your Walls aren’t the Problem
People who are dealing with excessive noise typically believe that the intruding sound is infiltrating their home equally through their walls and windows. As a result, they waste time and money soundproofing their walls that they don’t need to.
The logic appears to be sound. Windows only make up a minor part of your home’s façade. Walls make up the majority of your home’s shell. If the sound gets through the walls as well, soundproofing them makes more sense because you get more bang for your buck. Why squander your time looking through those teeny-tiny windows?
However, this is a blunder. According to research, walls aren’t a substantial source of noise pollution. Their multilayer construction is the cause behind this.
Walls commonly have an exterior wood sheathing covered in a siding material. There is an air gap behind this that is typically filled with insulation. A layer of drywall covers this on the inside of the house. Outside noise is effectively impeded and absorbed by these several layers of diverse materials.
Windows, on the other hand, especially older, single-pane types, perform a poor job of soundproofing. Sound is easily transmitted through the thin glass since it is not absorptive. Older windows sometimes have cracks, holes, and gaps around their frames, allowing air and noise to flow in.
If you’re having trouble with unwanted noise don’t spend money on soundproofing your walls. The advantage will almost certainly not outweigh the expenditure. Focus on your windows first, and only adjust your walls if the window modifications aren’t enough.
Check the Condition of Your Windows before Soundproofing
Before beginning any of these soundproofing works, it’s critical to address any severe difficulties. You should replace your windows if they are missing glass panes, are badly broken, or are otherwise damaged.
Older wood windows that weren’t well maintained may suffer from wood rot and large cracks or holes in their sashes or frames. If the damage to the windows is severe enough, you should consider replacing them with new vinyl replacement windows. Soundproofing broken windows aren’t nearly as effective as soundproofing functional windows.
It’s also worth noting that replacing single-pane windows with modern double or triple-pane replacement windows can greatly minimize sound transmission. Sound is deflected significantly better by the multiple glass layers and the air gap between them than by a single pane of glass.
New, high-quality replacement windows are, of course, an expensive option that normally necessitates professional installation. New windows may be all you need to solve your noise problem if you have the funds. If not, keep reading for less priced, do-it-yourself alternatives.
Summary on How to Soundproof a Window Cheaply
Regardless of which approach you use, you’ll limit outside sound intrusion, however, some methods perform better than others. You’ll have to weigh the severity of your problem against each method’s proportional benefits and ease of installation.
Window plugs, storm windows, plexiglass sheets, and full replacement windows are the best alternatives for very bothersome sounds. Some of the lighter-weight alternatives may be able to reduce noise pollution.
You might want to start with the less intrusive options and only move on to the more intrusive ones if necessary. Compounding numerous approaches will always be beneficial.
FAQs on How to Soundproof a Window Cheaply
Here are some frequently asked questions about soundproofing windows.
What windows are best for soundproofing?
Double-glazed windows provide the best soundproofing because they produce a sealed insulated layer of air in between the panes.
Are soundproof windows expensive?
The best soundproofing windows (double glass) are extremely expensive, costing thousands of dollars.
How can I soundproof my windows cheaply?
Soundproof drapes and window plugs are two items that can be used to soundproof a window on a budget.
Are triple pane windows soundproof?
From a soundproofing standpoint, triple pane windows are not a good option because of the triple leaf effect.
Can you soundproof existing Windows without replacing them?
Yes, soundproofing existing windows can be done to a large extent with window plugs or soundproof curtains.